Indian Register of Shipping and Cochin Shipyard Collaborate on Indigenous Autonomous Vessel Project

2 December 2024

Mr. T K Sahu, Joint Managing Director, Indian Register of Shipping. (Image credit: IRS)

The Indian Register of Shipping (IRS) and Cochin Shipyard Ltd (CSL) have entered into an umbrella agreement aimed at developing indigenous technologies and enhancing the capabilities of both organizations. As part of this initiative, IRS and CSL have signed a separate cooperation agreement for the development and certification of an autonomous vessel, SWAYAT, which is being constructed at CSL as a fully indigenous pilot project.

Key technology partners include KPIT and other Indian manufacturers specializing in autonomous systems and components. The vessel will be verified in accordance with IRS Guidelines on Autonomous and Remotely Operated Vessels, ensuring compliance with the highest standards. In addition, the cyber security aspects will be addressed as per the IRS Guidelines on Maritime Cyber Safety.

The project also includes the certification of an indigenously developed navigation and communication suite, which will be verified by the IRS. Collaboration with leading academic and research institutions will play a key role in design and simulation studies for the vessel.

Mr. T K Sahu, Joint MD of IRS, stated, “It is a matter of great pride for IRS to be part of this prestigious project with CSL and their industry partners. This initiative demonstrates India’s indigenous capabilities in advanced technologies and aligns with the Government of India’s ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ mission. We believe the experience gained through this pilot project will further strengthen our processes for certifying vessels with advanced autonomy.”